Have you ever noticed that many causes have a ‘poster child’ to appeal to the masses? In environmentalism, this could be an animal such as a Blue Whale, Northern Spotted Owl, or Monarch Butterfly. While losing any one of these animals would be tragic, it is time to start looking beyond single species. It is time to learn about and …
Landscape Consultations
Do any of the following describe your situation in the garden: You don’t mind doing yard work, but you aren’t sure how to manage your property. With a tight budget, you don’t know how you can execute on your great ideas. You want to improve your property over time, but you are not sure where to start. If any of …
How to Buy Plants
Now that spring is here it seems like potted plants are everywhere. Grocery stores, big box stores, and produce stands all have plant displays front and center to entice you into buying. If you are like me and find these green gems difficult to resist, here are a few guidelines to ensure that you make wise purchases. Garden Centers vs …
Landscapes at the Farm Show?
Have you ever been to the Pennsylvania Farm Show? If not, you don’t know what you are missing. With free admission and $15 parking, it could be the best deal in the state! So what is there to see and do at the Farm Show? With over 6,000 animals and over 10,000 exhibits it is difficult to decide! Below …
Smart, Tasteful, and Beautiful Outdoor Lighting
When asked if we install outdoor lighting, I always respond yes, with reservation. As an environmentally responsible landscape company, how do we justify adding services that require electricity, may damage the night-time ecology, and can even harm human health? The answer is with thoughtful lighting design, of course. Problems with Nighttime Lighting Most people understand the term light pollution when …
Now is the Time to Stop Deer Damage To Trees
Deer damage to trees is both heartbreaking, and expensive. Deer rub their antlers on trees in early fall and it’s important to protect your trees- whether they’re newly installed or as large as six inches in diameter! Why do bucks rub? Bucks go through a yearly cycle of growing antlers, loosing the antler’s velvet, and then shedding their antlers. As …
Update: Monarch Populations
Last September, I wrote an article on Monarch butterfly migration and noted that Monarch butterfly populations are in severe decline. In fact, the winter of 2013 recorded the lowest population of butterflies returning to Mexico ever with populations reduced by 90% over the last 25 years. So this year, as summer draws to a close and these incredible insects prepare …
Shady Garden Plants for Summertime
By now all of you GreenWeaver fans should have your native shade tree planted on the southwest corner of your house for energy efficiency, wildlife habitat, and comfort just in time for the summer heat! The next question is: What do you plant under it? Or in any shady location on your property? We all know that turf grass does …
Green City, Clean Waters
Go Philly! Did you know that the city of Philadelphia leads the nation in: Commuter Biking Per capita consumption of sweatshirts and sweatpants Life sciences research and development Stormwater management Pretty cool stuff! And although I certainly have opinions about the whole list, I can only speak intelligently about the last item, so let me explain a little about Philadelphia’s …
Water in the Garden
Every garden can benefit from a water feature. From still reflecting pools to vibrant fountains, water adds an important element to our outdoor spaces. Water also brings life to a garden, figuratively, as well as literally. So in deciding how we want to incorporate water into our spaces, let’s look at several considerations. Purpose Water can perform many functions in …